by Artisttia Yarns

Created on: April 07, 2009   Last Updated: July 04, 2009

Massage therapy is both an art and a practice which has been in existence for thousands of years. Massage therapy began its history in ancient China and gradually spread to the rest of the world. Simply put, massage therapy is not just a relaxing activity; it is therapy that has health benefits that work. It is capable of dissipating pain ,stress, enhancing relaxation and some claim you can even lose weight by getting a massage.

BENEFITS OF MASSAGE:

*Massage provides touch, which is a basic need of all humans and is present from birth. Touch promotes the release of the "happy hormone", Oxytocin. Massage promotes a feeling of wellbeing. The release of this hormone, simply put, help calm the mind, cause relax to both the mind and body. Of interest, this hormone is released in both the giver of the the massage and in the receiver of the massage.

*The caress of the skin during the massage increases blood circulation to the skin and tissues beneath the skin's surface, as well as the deeper muscles structures underneath. This helps to promote nourishment and cellular regeneration. Skin that has been massaged appears healthier due to the enhanced circulation. This enhancement brings more oxygen and nutrients to the skin and muscles. This allows the body to recover from injuries quicker.

*Massage is especially helpful in areas of scars during the first year after that area has healed. Massage your scar in the opposite direction of the scar. For example: if your scar is horizontal, massage it in a vertical direction. If the scar is in a difficult to massage area, such as the front of the neck, massage in gentle circles to help break down the scars.

*Because circulation is enhanced to the skin and muscles, blood flow is diverted (but not dangerously so) away from the cardiovascular system (heart). Because there is less blood return to the heart, blood pressure lowers, giving your heart a rest. This allows your cardiovascular system to become healthier. As people relax during massage, their breathing becomes deeper. This enhances the respiratory system as well.

*Massage can be used to help alleviate back and muscle pain. The manipulation of the muscles through massage helps to relieve the build-up of lactic acid, which in part is responsible for causing muscle pain and spasm . The stretching of muscles helps to relieve this too. As some muscles are relaxing, others will tighten; due to this effect, many find their posture will improve.

*Massage can also boost the immune system. This is because it stimulates the lymphatic system, which is the body's defense system. It helps flush toxins out of the body that have caused pain, stress and fatigue. Because of this positive effect, it is important to replace the fluids that the body will loose through urine and sweat. Make sure to drink plenty of water after the massage. The massage will also decrease the amount of Cortisol levels in the body. This also has a positive effect on decreasing weight.

*There is even speculation besides the fact that Cortisol levels are decreased and metabolism is increased, that there may be some other ways in which massage will help you lose weight. Some feel that massage may break the fat capsule in the subcutaneous tissue, this will release the fat from the cell into the released into the body's system so that it can be flushed away naturally.

Entire text books are dedicated to the subject the benefits of massage; therefore, I've covered just a few, whether or not the benefit of losing weight is included or not. This is why most people can benefit from one. There are many different types of massage available. Keep trying different types ones until you find the one that is right for you.

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